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I also asked around and Fitbit seemed like the most “open” platform for collecting one’s own data. Either the OP didn't ask around very well, or they were lied

I also asked around and Fitbit seemed like the most “open” platform for collecting one’s own data. Either the OP didn't ask around very well, or they were lied to. There are plenty of other much more open solutions out there. Edit: A downvote? Really? In what way is the above not true?

jessedhillon 14y ago
Give us names, add links.
- npsimons 14y ago
  Okay, names and links: I speak here only from personal experience; having used the following mostly at the gym, biking to and from work and while hiking in the Sierras: - Garmin Forerunner 405 (https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=11039&ra=true https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=11039&ra=true): All around general good "exercise" watch, but battery life requires a backup plan. Doesn't have Linux software, but can easily export to GPX for use in things like Google Earth and Maps. You can also combine other sensors: bicycle speed/cadence sensor (https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=1266 https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=1266) and a foot pod (https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=15516 https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=15516) for gym workouts, or just longer battery life. - Zephyr HXM (http://www.zephyr-technology.com/products/fitness http://www.zephyr-technology.com/products/fitness) combined with a smartphone (such as N900): Another good solution for basic logging; a variety of software to choose from, with different levels of openness. Just to curb some replies: I know that FitBit does other stuff, lasts longer on a charge, has less friction getting data off, etc, but the thing I'm countering is the openness claim. If you have to pay for your data, and you still don't get a copy, it's a) not your data and b) not an open platform. Some basic research would have revealed this, hence why I didn't (and won't) get a FitBit, and I recommend others avoid it too.
mfringel 14y ago
Your statement may be true, but it adds nothing to the discussion. You did not point out alternatives, examples, or links to same.

jessedhillon 14y ago

Give us names, add links.

npsimons 14y ago
Okay, names and links: I speak here only from personal experience; having used the following mostly at the gym, biking to and from work and while hiking in the Sierras: - Garmin Forerunner 405 (https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=11039&ra=true https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=11039&ra=true): All around general good "exercise" watch, but battery life requires a backup plan. Doesn't have Linux software, but can easily export to GPX for use in things like Google Earth and Maps. You can also combine other sensors: bicycle speed/cadence sensor (https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=1266 https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=1266) and a foot pod (https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=15516 https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=15516) for gym workouts, or just longer battery life. - Zephyr HXM (http://www.zephyr-technology.com/products/fitness http://www.zephyr-technology.com/products/fitness) combined with a smartphone (such as N900): Another good solution for basic logging; a variety of software to choose from, with different levels of openness. Just to curb some replies: I know that FitBit does other stuff, lasts longer on a charge, has less friction getting data off, etc, but the thing I'm countering is the openness claim. If you have to pay for your data, and you still don't get a copy, it's a) not your data and b) not an open platform. Some basic research would have revealed this, hence why I didn't (and won't) get a FitBit, and I recommend others avoid it too.

mfringel 14y ago

Your statement may be true, but it adds nothing to the discussion. You did not point out alternatives, examples, or links to same.